Landon Donovan criticizes referee after controversial red card to Balogun
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 4, 2026, 11:49 AM
Last updated Jul 4, 2026
Landon Donovan expressed strong disapproval of referee Raphael Claus's decision to issue a red card to Folarin Balogun during the USMNT's match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. Balogun's red card, stemming from an accidental foul, rules him out of the upcoming Round of 16 clash against Belgium. Donovan described the decision as a 'moronic' choice that could significantly impact the team's chances in the tournament. He emphasized the lack of intent in Balogun's challenge and called for more common sense in officiating. The USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino supported Balogun's view, stating the incident was a normal action in football. Balogun himself commented on the need to accept the decision but felt a yellow card would have been fairer.
- •Folarin Balogun receives a red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
- •Landon Donovan calls referee Raphael Claus's decision 'moronic'.
- •Balogun ruled out of Round of 16 match against Belgium.
- •Donovan and Pochettino argue there was no intent in Balogun's challenge.
- •Balogun expresses acceptance of the decision, calling for a yellow instead.
- 11:49 AMYahoo Sports — Landon Donovan's unhinged rant at 'moron' and 'idiot' World Cup referee
"Folarin Balogun was shown a controversial red card in the USMNT's win over Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Landon Donovan was furious with the referee's decision ahead of Belgium in the Round of 16
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